Snakes in Singapore
About snakes in Singapore and what to do when you encounter them
Last updated 31 October 2025
Equatorial spitting cobra
What are snakes?
Snakes are elongated, legless reptiles with flexible bodies covered in overlapping scales. These carnivorous animals move by undulating their muscular bodies and use their forked tongues to detect chemical signals in their environment. Like all reptiles, snakes are ectothermic (cold-blooded), regulating their body temperature using heat radiating off their surroundings through the process of thermoregulation.
There are 64 native species of snakes that can be found in Singapore. Snakes in Singapore are active throughout the year due to our tropical climate. They come in many sizes, from the Brahminy Blind Snake that grows no longer than 20 cm, to the Reticulated Python that can grow up to over 9 m in length.
Distribution & Habitat
With the variety of snakes in Singapore, they can be found in many nature reserves, parks, and even in urban areas.
Snakes are found in urban areas due to the availability of foods such as rodents, as well as small birds, reptiles and amphibians. Some snakes, such as the Reticulated Python, have adapted to living in urban environments. They access areas with high prey population by travelling through drains and canals.
Behaviour
Some snakes are ground-dwelling while others are tree-dwelling. Some snakes are even adept swimmers.
Snakes can subdue their prey in a variety of ways, such as with venom or constriction.
Snakes are generally shy creatures and will usually try to slither away from humans. Snakes are generally not aggressive and will not attack unless they are disturbed or provoked.
Important Ecological Role(s)
Snakes are vital components of the food web as predators of small animals and prey to larger mammals and birds. Snakes such as pythons act as a vital biological control for local rodent populations who can become pests if left unchecked.
Reticulated python
What should I do when I encounter a snake?
If you come across snakes that are injured, distressed or trapped, call our Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600 and we will send professionals who are trained in handling and caring for wildlife to assist you.
Please avoid handling the snake yourself as this may cause further stress or injury to the animal. The snake may also bite in self-defence.
Stay calm and do not be alarmed. Back away slowly to give the snake space to retreat.
These animals are shy and will not attack humans unless provoked or cornered. Sudden movements may alarm the snake and cause it to attack in self-defence.
Do not touch, chase, or corner the snake.
Leave it alone, especially if it is in its natural habitat. Snakes may attack in self-defence. Keep a safe distance away from the animal and observe it from afar.
Keep your pets on a tight leash.
Your pet might chase the snake and frighten it. Keeping your pet on a tight leash and near to you will also keep it safe from the snake.
If you have been bitten by a snake, seek medical attention immediately.
What should I do if I am affected by snakes?
Entry into your house
Call our Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600 and we will send professionals who are trained in handling and caring for wildlife to assist you.
Keep your distance as the snake might be looking for a dark and secure area to hide. Keep all family members and pets away from where the snake is.
If snake is found inside a room, keep all doors and windows that lead outside open for the snake to exit.
Find out why the snake came to your area – a potential cause can be improper waste disposal which attracts pests that snakes prey on.
To prevent snakes from entering your property, practice proper food waste disposal to avoid pest rodents. Remove potential hiding spots such as pots or containers. Keep your grass short and seal up any holes or burrows in your garden.
Alternatively, you may install a wire mesh that is at least 1 metre high and dug into the ground to keep terrestrial snakes away.
Be sure to keep your pets indoors or ensure that its cage is snake-proof.
Persisting in an area
If you come across snakes persisting in an area, you can call our Animal Response Centre at 1800-476-1600 for assistance.
If you have further queries, please contact us through our online feedback form at https://www.avs.gov.sg/feedback.
Photos by Cyrena Lin and Noel Thomas
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